This is Dr. Rita Martin's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Rita Martin

Offering therapy in LA
License: DBH,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I see counseling as a process in which you the client, and I, the counselor, having come to understand and trust one another, work as a team to explore and define present problem situations, develop future goals for an improved life and work in a systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I focus on clients self-awareness, self-acceptance, and empower them to change self-sabotaging behaviors. I earned a Master of Arts degree in Student Personnel Services, Counseling from Northwestern State University of Louisiana in May 2011 and a Doctor of Behavioral Health from Arizona State University in December 2017. I am licensed as a Professional Counselor (#5115) with the Louisiana LPC Board of Examiners at 11410 Lake Sherwood Ave. North Suite A, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, (225) 295-8444. On May 12, 2020, I became licensed as a Professional Counselor (#83930) by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors in Austin, Texas. On March 25, 2022, I became licensed as a Professional Counselor (#C6691) by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists (OBLPCT) in Salem, Oregon.

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Gayle Reed

Offering therapy in LA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help! I am glad you have decided to take the first steps to address the challenges you are facing. I know it can be difficult to reach out and discuss personal issues with someone. An important part of counseling is finding a counselor you can connect with. I want to provide you with some information about me in order to help you decide if I may be able to assist you in overcoming these challenges. My name is Gayle Reed, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in George and Louisiana. I have over 15 years of social work experience. I earned a Masters degree in Social Work from Louisiana State University in 2004. I have a worked with children, families, individuals, and couples. I have a great deal of experience working with military families and veterans. My preferred treatment style is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) that focuses on helping you to change negative thought patterns so you can view situations more clearly and respond to them in a more effective way. CBT is a useful tool to address depression, anxiety, learn techniques for coping with stressful situations, resolve conflicts and learn better ways to communicate. In addition, I incorporate mindfulness techniques and solution focused therapy to enhance my practice. I look forward to working with you!

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Michelle Waguespack

Offering therapy in LA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
12 years of experience

I am an LPC licensed in the state of Louisiana. My counseling experience has spanned the university, business, and private practice settings. Although my degree focus is in the marriage and family area, I built a specialty in career counseling working with all stages and phases of career issues. In addition, I am passionate about working with clients in the areas of communication, anxiety, grief& loss, confidence building, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I believe that good therapy comes from a warm, non-judgmental professional relationship. I will work with you to help you achieve your goals and live your best life. My counseling approach is collaborative, and client focused and I would be honored to work with you.

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Shannon Sanders

Offering therapy in LA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepression
10 years of experience

“People start to heal, the moment they are heard.” – Cheryl Richardson. Greetings! My name is Shannon. I am Licensed Professional Counselor. I have a wealth of experience working in many behavioral health settings such as inpatient psychiatric facilities, health centers, schools, and in-home services. My experience has allowed me the opportunity to work with a variety of populations and address numerous topics. I have worked with Clients to tackle issues related to various forms of abuse, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, poor coping skills, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is quite eclectic and varies depending on the needs of my client. I typically implement techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. I pride myself in meeting my Clients where they are at in their lives. I believe that Clients are the experts of their lives and flourish when they are given non-judgmental support and encouragement from their therapist. I work collaboratively with my clients and use my acquired skill sets to support them with achieving their individual goals. I look forward to beginning the counseling journey with you!

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Harriette Wade

Offering therapy in LA
License: LPC
Relationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes even the strongest people among us need a little help to work through some of life ‘s most challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. My focal point is providing a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space for adults, couples, and families to share their experiences and to help navigate through some of the most difficult life changes [positive or negative]; to create more balance in your life. I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to make changes to improve their lives, find purpose, and meaningful fulfillment. I would love the opportunity to help you create a personalized treatment plan that will be supported from evidence-based methodologies that will allow you to work with and through your current experiences. I received a master’s in professional counseling in 2012 from Grand Canyon University. I have more than nearly 20 years of experience in the helping professions. I have had the pleasure of working with a range of people experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, and symptoms of severe, persistent mental illness (SPMI). Over the past 7 years I have worked in mental rehabilitation centers as well as intensive outpatient programs. I believe in fostering the skills needed for effective coping mechanisms for overall wellness. I have ongoing collaborative initiatives with psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, primary care, social service agencies. Deciding to engage in therapy can be overwhelming. Finding a therapist whose personality and style is a quintessential component in the therapeutic alliance. I view the member/client as the expert in their life experiences with unique values and needs. I look forward to helping those to effectively pursue their values and explore what keeps them from being the best version of themselves.

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Darlene Kelly

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSleeping disordersAnger managementDepression
23 years of experience

I am a family and marriage therapist with over 20 years of experience. I have experience in working with singles, married couples, teens and the elderly. I am here to help you, knowing that reaching out for help is not always easy. I am an open-ended listener who gives you the opportunity to express yourself in a nonjudgmental environment. I have helped many get through their trials and tribulations. My idea of therapy is not to erase what you've been through but, to offer an environment where you can express any and all experiences and voice how you can move forward. My goal is to help you grow in all aspects of life, it's not always easy being vulnerable which is why I offer my support and aid in all experiences that you have and will go through. I hope to meet you soon!

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Jamie Munson Wilson

Offering therapy in LA
Self esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Rebecca Tokay

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
17 years of experience

I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Louisiana with 15 years of professional work experience - 10 of which I have been licensed. I have experience in working with children, adolescents, and adults who have problems with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Disorder, Past and Current Trauma’s, Relationship problems between family, peers and teachers/authority figures as well as those with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem and low self-confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I usually focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but am also trained in Solution-Focused Therapy, Grief Therapy and Trauma Induced Therapy. I believe that counseling is a relationship where you and I work together as a team to help you fulfill the goals you are wanting to achieve. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I really look forward to working with you!

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Sara Darling

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a TEAM-CBT Level 1 therapist licensed in Alabama and Louisiana with 10 plus years of experience helping people cope with challenges they are facing in life. I partner with clients who are dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Kelli Means

Offering therapy in LA
License: LIMHP,LADC,LPC
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
8 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Kelli Means and my pronouns are she/her/hers. I am a licensed independent mental health practitioner (LIMHP) and licensed alcohol and drug counselor (LADC) in the state of Nebraska and a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of South Dakota. In 2019 I earned certification as a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist and have maintained this certification with ongoing education in the trauma field. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Nebraska Wesleyan University in 2011 and my Masters of Science from Wayne State College in Community Mental Health Counseling in 2015. I have worked in the mental health field for 10 years and the past 6 years have been as a mental health and addictions therapist at non-profit agencies that work with state funding and/or sliding fee scales. I have worked in a variety of settings, including an inpatient psychiatric unit while attending my master’s program, outpatient therapy, school-based therapy, and residential drug and alcohol treatment. I have found that my heart is truly in working with patients who have limited resources to meet their needs. While I have experience with children and adolescents, most of my experience has been working with adults. As a provider, I have worked with patients with a range of diagnoses and stressors, including (but not limited to): depression, anxiety, panic/panic attacks, schizophrenia (including first psychotic episodes), bipolar disorder, personality disorders, PTSD and trauma, LGBT+, grief/loss, relationships, sex trafficking, self-esteem, domestic violence, alcohol and other drug addictions, and dissociations. My counseling style is welcoming and conversational. I am known for being upfront and honest always and blunt when needed, though I tailor my approach to meet each individual’s needs. My therapeutic approach combines Person-Centered, Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused therapist, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, and Somatic therapy depending on what you want or need. My job will never be to fix you or change you. I believe all my clients are people first and more than the sum of their symptoms or their diagnosis. My most significant job as a therapist is to understand who you are and build trust with you; if you don’t trust your therapist, you aren’t likely to tell them much, and if you don’t tell them much, you won’t get much work done. My hope is to teach you to cope on your own and learn to be assertive with what you want or need in life. You are in control of your life and ability to make changes, I am merely a guide to help you when you are lost or uncertain. I look forward to meeting you and starting this journey with you!

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How to find counseling in Homer

Finding the best therapist close by in Homer can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Homer. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Homer, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Homer or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Homer area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Homer, elsewhere in Claiborne, or in the greater state of Louisiana.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Homer area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Homer therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Homer due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Homer may not take health insurance, some in the state of Louisiana may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Louisiana you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Homer, Louisiana working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Homer above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Homer helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Homer therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Homer therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Homer therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in LA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 71040 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Homer counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Homer licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Homer, Louisiana can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Homer has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Homer.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Homer:

71040

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